UK Prime Minister says Iran likely linked to RAF Fairford terrorism probe
Speaking after the Labour Party conference, Burnham said British authorities suspect Iranian involvement in the incident that led to the detention of five London-based men near the Gloucestershire airbase. He declined to reveal details while the police investigation continues, but confirmed the belief that Iran played a part. The United States also voiced concern about a foreign actor’s role, and both governments are coordinating their response.
At a press briefing following the Labour Party conference, Prime Minister Andy Burnham said investigators have strong indications that Iran was involved in the events that resulted in five men being arrested near RAF Fairford. The suspects, all in their 20s and residents of London, were initially detained on suspicion of explosives offences before being held for alleged terrorism preparation. Burnham said he cannot share further details while the inquiry remains ongoing, but affirmed the government's belief in Iranian participation.
He noted that the United States has also warned of a foreign actor’s involvement and that British and American officials are working closely together. The five individuals were released on strict bail conditions after searches of their vans and associated London addresses. Burnham stressed that security services are handling the case with the utmost attention.
How this story developed
- Sep 27 Police arrest men at RAF Fairford after suspicious vehicle activity
- Sep 28 Police declared a major incident and set up a 400‑metre exclusion zone around the base.
- Sep 28 The five suspects were released on police bail.
- Sep 29 US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said a foreign actor was involved in a thwarted terror plot near RAF Fairford, while five suspects were released on bail.
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